The Duke of Edinburgh officially opened British Airways i360 in October 2016

From all the team at British Airways i360, our sincere condolences go to Her Majesty the Queen and members of the Royal Family at this time of sadness and personal loss.

Our team fondly remember His Royal Highness Prince Philip’s official opening visit to British Airways i360 in Brighton on 28th October 2016.

HRH Prince Philip enjoyed views across Sussex from the glass observation pod before unveiling a plaque. This remains on display in the beach building for all visitors to see.

The Duke of Edinburgh was particularly interested in design and engineering. During his visit, he was shown the control room and the operating winch, and spent time speaking with the attraction’s chief architects, David Marks and Julia Barfield, plus chief engineer, Dr John Roberts.

The Duke of Edinburgh with David Marks and John Roberts on board BA i360

David Marks commented on the official opening day: “His Royal Highness is a fantastic champion of good design in arts and industry and has furthered this cause with energy and passion for more than 50 years. Knowing The Duke of Edinburgh’s love of engineering and innovation, we were absolutely delighted and honoured that he agreed to open British Airways i360 today, inspect the tower, its viewing pod and the technology that makes it work; and to meet key members of the engineering team and representatives of the community that made this engineering tour de force a reality. Everyone who has been involved in the project is deeply honoured that the Duke of Edinburgh opened British Airways i360 today and it has been a pleasure showcasing this new landmark to His Royal Highness.”

HRH Prince Philip unveiling the official opening plaque which is on display in the beach building at British Airways i360 Viewing Tower